“Blue Moon”, Richard Linklater’s delightful new film, centers on one important night which changes the course of life for one Lorenz Hart (“Blue Moon”, “The Lady Is a Tramp”, “Manhattan” and “My Funny Valentine”). This particular night happens to be March 31st, 1943, which is the opening night of the Broadway production of “Oklahoma!”.
During this night, in real time, Hart discovers that Richard Rodgers, his creative partner, abandons their project in favor of a new partnership with Oscar Hammerstein, with whom he writes the successful plays that include: “Carousel”, “The King and I”, “South Pacific” and “The Sound of Music”.
Ethan Hawke delivers an impactful performance as Lorenz Hart, a closeted alcoholic, who also likes to be in the presence of young women. One of these women, played by Margaret Qualley (“The Substance”). Bobby Cannavale portrays a bartender. Richard Rodgers, Hart’s friend and secret lover, who leaves him abruptly because of his unstable nature, is perfectly portrayed by Andrew Scott (“All of Us Strangers”).
“Blue Moon” captures an especially painful moment during an evening which marks the end of a career for a tortured genius, while doing so with a comedic touch and a painfully sobering style. All this results in 100 minutes which are unique and especially amazing.
